Manufacturing Sector Strengthening Ethiopia’s Economic Sovereignty, Says Industry Minister

Addis Ababa, May 3, 2026 —Ethiopia’s manufacturing sector is playing an increasingly vital role in strengthening the country’s economic sovereignty, Industry Minister Melaku Alebel said at the opening of the 4th ‘Made in Ethiopia’ Expo.

Speaking at the event, officially launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the minister underscored the government’s commitment to expanding industrial production and reducing dependence on imported goods through stronger domestic manufacturing.

The opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials, including House of Federation Speaker, Agegnehu Teshager, President of the Federal Supreme Court, Tewodros Meheret, dem Farah, Vice President of the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) and Head of the Democratic System Building Center, with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister, alongside other high-ranking officials and invited dignitaries.

 

In his remarks, Melaku said the achievements recorded by Ethiopia’s productive workforce under the government’s reform agenda demonstrate the country’s growing momentum toward prosperity.

He described industrial development as a central pillar of the government’s development strategy, noting that a strong manufacturing sector helps safeguard national sovereignty, reduce economic dependency, and preserve national dignity.

According to the minister, continued investment in manufacturing will enable Ethiopia to withstand external economic pressures while ensuring sustainable long-term growth.

He added that the government has introduced wide-ranging reforms in recent years, including macroeconomic measures, new policy frameworks, and efforts to create a more favorable environment for manufacturers to boost productivity.

Melaku also highlighted the establishment of the Manufacturing Industry Council, which he said was created to address challenges facing producers and improve efficiency across the sector.

He noted that reforms implemented over recent years have increased production capacity, expanded local substitute products, and strengthened export performance.

 

The minister said the Made in Ethiopia movement has also played a significant role in raising public awareness about the importance of supporting locally made products.

The expo will help strengthen collaboration among manufacturers, encourage experience-sharing, and facilitate research and technology transfer to further enhance the sector’s competitiveness, he further elaborated.

Melaku reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing persistent manufacturing challenges, particularly in finance and infrastructure—while also emphasizing the importance of expanding rural industries to sustain the progress achieved over the past four years.